THE MUSIC OF ENCOUNTER

ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SCORE Composed by Penka Kouneva

Paul Salamoff and I share deep, enduring passion for Science fiction, fantasy and horror. I was thrilled beyond words when he asked me to read the ENCOUNTER script. I immediately related to the characters - each one of them has traits that are universal and personal - traits I could instantly identify with. I was inspired by how each character went on a journeys from brokenness to healing, and by the mysteries beyond human comprehension.

Paul Salamoff is a dream director to work with. He had a clear, powerful, cohesive vision of the story, from the big picture down to the smallest details. Paul's storyboards, alongside with long conceptual talks and his illuminating guidance, were incredibly inspiring for my work. A collaboration and friendship I will cherish forever on a film I love so much!!

In my music I tried to express how we long for wholeness (after trauma, or the hard knocks of life). How much we, humans, desire forgiveness, reconciliation and a second chance. I also wanted to capture the mystery and alure, and the irrational fear of the unknown that live deep in our hearts.

The musical themes express the essence and personality of each character and the Alien. The score is a traditional thematic score that also pays an homage to some electronic Science fiction scores.

-- Penka Kouneva, Composer

In John Rodd's Clearstory Sound studio, mixing Reel 6 of the ENCOUNTER score. John Rodd is a Los Angeles-based recording, mixing and mastering engineer and frequent collaborator of Penka's.